Disability matters

In the our Corporate Plan "Delivering for our Communities" (2012-16), one of the Council's values is "Treating everyone fairly". In order to live up to this value, we are committed to creating a community that recognises and celebrates diversity within a culture of respect and co-operation. We appreciate that a culture which promotes equality will create a positive environment and a shared sense of belonging for all who live in, work in, or visit the New Forest District.

Being positive about Disability is very much part of this commitment and the Council seeks to ensure that people with disabilities are treated fairly, have equal access to our services and that support and assistance is provided where possible.

Accessible Britain Challenge

Introduction

In July 2013 the Government published its disability strategy Fulfilling Potential - Making it Happen. An important part of this strategy focuses on communities being more inclusive and accessible.

Research tells us that disabled people of all ages and backgrounds want to participate in every aspect of life - home and family life, community life, education, training, employment and volunteering. They want to have the opportunity to participate in society and be valued for their contribution. Particularly important to disabled people are attitudes, transport, housing, social participation, friends and family, information and access.

Significant progress has been made in some communities to make them more inclusive and accessible but, there is still evidence to show that progress in other areas is patchy and that's why on the 4 September 2014, Mark Harper, Minister for Disabled People launched a challenge to all communities to do more to be inclusive and accessible.

New Forest District Council is embracing this challenge and we would like to promote the services we already provide to disabled people within our communities as well as encourage a closer working partnership to remove any barriers they may face.